North Tarrant Surgical & Aesthetics

GERD SurgeryAnti-Reflux Procedures

Long-term relief from chronic acid reflux and heartburn with minimally invasive anti-reflux surgery. Reduce or eliminate your need for daily medications.

Understanding GERD

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) occurs when stomach acid frequently flows back into the esophagus, causing heartburn, regurgitation, and other uncomfortable symptoms. When medications don't provide adequate relief, surgery can offer a permanent solution.

Anti-reflux surgery strengthens the natural barrier between the stomach and esophagus, providing long-term relief and allowing many patients to reduce or eliminate their need for acid-blocking medications.

Common GERD Symptoms

  • Frequent heartburn, especially at night
  • Regurgitation of food or sour liquid
  • Difficulty swallowing or chest pain
  • Chronic cough or hoarse voice

When to Consider Surgery

Medication Failure

Symptoms persist despite optimal medical therapy

Complications

Barrett's esophagus, strictures, or severe inflammation

Lifestyle Impact

Symptoms significantly affect quality of life

Medication Concerns

Preference to avoid long-term medication use

Anti-Reflux Procedures

Minimally invasive techniques to restore the natural anti-reflux mechanism

Laparoscopic Fundoplication

The gold standard procedure where the upper stomach is wrapped around the lower esophagus to strengthen the anti-reflux valve.

  • • Minimally invasive approach
  • • Same-day or overnight stay
  • • 90%+ success rate
  • • Durable long-term results

Robotic Fundoplication

Enhanced precision using the da Vinci robotic system for complex cases or revision procedures.

  • • Enhanced surgical precision
  • • 3D visualization
  • • Improved ergonomics
  • • Excellent outcomes

Hiatal Hernia Repair

Combined procedure to repair hiatal hernia and perform anti-reflux surgery when both conditions are present.

  • • Addresses both problems
  • • Single procedure
  • • Comprehensive solution
  • • Improved outcomes

What to Expect

1

Pre-Surgery

  • Upper endoscopy and pH study
  • Swallowing study (barium swallow)
  • Pre-operative instructions
  • Medication adjustments
2

Surgery Day

  • Outpatient or overnight procedure
  • General anesthesia (1-2 hours)
  • 5 small laparoscopic incisions
  • Recovery in comfortable setting
3

Recovery

  • Liquid diet progressing to solids
  • Return to work in 1-2 weeks
  • Follow-up swallow study
  • Gradual medication reduction

Benefits of GERD Surgery

Long-term Relief

Durable symptom control for years to come

Reduced Medication Need

Many patients can eliminate daily acid blockers

Improved Quality of Life

Better sleep, eating, and daily activities

Prevention of Complications

Reduces risk of Barrett's esophagus and strictures

Recovery Guidelines

1

Week 1

Clear liquids, then full liquids. Rest and light activity.

2

Week 2

Soft foods, return to work. Small, frequent meals.

3

Weeks 3-6

Gradual return to regular foods. Follow-up studies.

4

Long-term

Normal diet, reduced medications, excellent symptom control.

Insurance Coverage

GERD surgery is typically covered by most insurance plans when conservative treatment has failed and surgery is medically necessary. Our team will verify your benefits and handle pre-authorization.

Insurance Accepted

Most major insurance plans

Cost Savings

Reduces long-term medication costs

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about GERD surgery and recovery. Our team is here to help you make informed decisions about your care.

Surgery is typically recommended when medications don't provide adequate relief, you have complications like Barrett's esophagus, or you prefer to avoid long-term medication use. Dr. Shabout will evaluate your symptoms, response to treatment, and overall health to determine if surgery is right for you.
Laparoscopic fundoplication is a minimally invasive procedure where the upper part of the stomach is wrapped around the lower esophagus to strengthen the valve and prevent acid reflux. This is done through small incisions using a camera and specialized instruments.
GERD surgery is highly effective, with over 90% of patients experiencing significant symptom relief. Most patients can reduce or eliminate their need for acid-blocking medications after successful surgery.
Most patients go home the same day or after an overnight stay. You'll start with liquids and gradually progress to solid foods over 2-4 weeks. Most people return to normal activities within 1-2 weeks and can resume all foods within 6-8 weeks.
Yes, most patients can eat normally after full recovery. Initially, you'll need to eat smaller portions and chew thoroughly. Some patients may have difficulty with carbonated beverages or very large meals, but most foods are well tolerated.
GERD surgery is generally safe with low complication rates. Risks include difficulty swallowing (usually temporary), bloating, inability to vomit or belch, and rare complications like bleeding or infection. Dr. Shabout will discuss all risks specific to your case.